BREED DESCRIPTION & INFORMATION
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Breed Registries:
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Note: The breed registries indicated above are the most recognized all-breed registries. The breed may also be recognized by other registries not indicated here. For further details about dog registries, please see the document: Dog Breed Registries in North America.
* — The FCI is the World Canine Organization, which includes 84 members and contract partners (one member per country) that each issue their own pedigrees and train their own judges. The FCI recognizes 339 breeds, with each being the "property" of a specific country. The "owner" countries of the breeds write the standards of these breeds in co-operation with the Standards and Scientific Commissions of the FCI, and the translation and updating are carried out by the FCI. The FCI is not a breed registry nor does it issue pedigrees.
Origin:
Dalmatia, Croatian Republic
Height:
Males: 22 to 24 inches (56-61 cm) - Females: 21 to 23 inches (53-58 cm)
Breed Profile:
The Dalmatian is the only breed of dog with spots. Though the breed's origins are not clear, he has been known throughout Europe since the Middle Ages. Chronicles from the 14th century suggest that the breed originated in the Mediterranean region around the Dalmatian coast in the Croatian Republic. The first standard for the breed was written in 1882 and in 1890 this standard was transferred to the official breed standard. The Dalmatian was once used as a carriage dog to protect travellers from thieves. When brought into the United States, the Dalmatian became a firehouse mascot and often helped locate and rescue fire victims. A versatile breed, the Dal has also been used for herding, drafting, ratting and performing as a circus dog.
The Dalmatian is outgoing and dignified. He is a true gentleman, in that he is quiet and courteous. Nevertheless, he has a protective nature and serves as a dependable watchdog. He is intelligent, devoted to his family and people-oriented.
With his extreme stamina, he has the ability to travel great distances at a steady pace. He is strong, muscular and active, and requires lots of safe running room and regular exercise.
The Dalmatian is a medium-sized, smooth-coated breed. His unique spots are either black or liver (chocolate brown). He is clean by nature and has little, if any, "doggy odour."
Health Issues
Dalmatians, as with other breeds, are susceptible to some health problems, some of a genetic nature, others viral. The Dalmatian Health Concerns document includes information on some of the known health concerns found in the breed.
If you are considering the adoption of a Dalmatian puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
- Dalmatian Health Concerns
- Deafness in Dalmatians — From the Dalmatian Club of Canada
- Dalmatian Club of America Health & Research Information
- Canine Inherited Disorders Database — Dalmatian
- Health and Nutrition — Growing section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website which includes information on several health and nutrition related issues.
- Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) — Providing a source of health information for owners, breeders, and scientists that will assist in breeding healthy dogs. CHIC is a centralized canine health database jointly sponsored by the AKC/Canine Health Foundation (AKC/CHF) and the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).
- AKC Canine Health Foundation — Working towards developing scientific advances in canine health.
- Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)
- Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA)
- Ontario Veterinary College (OVC)
- University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program (PennHip)
- HealthGene — HealthGene Corporation is the leading provider of veterinary DNA diagnostic services in Canada.
Breed Standards
- CKC Breed Standard
- AKC Breed Standard
- UKC Breed Standard
- The Kennel Club (U.K.) Breed Standard
- FCI Breed Standard No. 153
AKC Dalmatian DVD
22 Min. DVD Edition, Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com
Grooming Information
The Dalmatian's short coat sheds almost year-round. In order to minimize shedding, regular brushing with a curry comb is recommended.
- Grooming — This section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.
Training Resources
- Training — For training information, see this growing section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
Additional Information
- A Bit of Dalmatian History By Maria Zorka
- "The Red Book" — The Dalmatian Club Of America's Informational Brochure Regarding Dalmatians
- Give Your Dalmatian a Chance By Terri Haase
- Will a Dalmatian Fit Your Lifestyle? By Chris Jackson
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — For information on the many sports and activities you can get involved in with your dog.
- Working Dogs — The Working Dogs section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website provides information and listings of organizations that are involved in various dog jobs, such as Guide Dogs, Therapy Dogs, Police Dogs, Protection Dogs, and much more.
Official Book of the Dalmatian
by Dalmatian Club of America
Breed origin and history, influential kennels and notable people, famous dogs, Dalmatians around the world, the breed standard, Dalmatians in competition and other activities, general health care, breed-specific problems such as deafness and urinary stone formation, breeding, selecting and raising a Dalmatian, and much more. 650 full-color photos. A great Dalmatian resource.
— Available from Dogwise.com
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Select from the following links to view Breeder listings; Breed Clubs; Rescue Organizations; as well as Books and other Merchandise specific to the breed: |
